Internet where you need it: The LiteBeam 5AC Gen2 Bridge
Do you have an outbuilding, workshop, or holiday home without fast internet? The Ubiquiti LiteBeam 5AC Gen2 is the perfect solution for establishing a stable and fast Network connection over long distances. This device is not an ordinary WiFi Antenna, but a sophisticated WiFi Bridge. It establishes a direct Point-to-Point connection (PtP) to a second, identical device, thus bridging distances where conventional WiFi fails. Forget expensive and elaborate Cabling – with this radio link, you bring your Network exactly where you need it, a true WiFi Bridge Set.
Maximum Performance through Smart Technology
The heart of the LiteBeam 5AC Gen2 is Ubiquiti's proprietary airMAX ac standard. Unlike regular WiFi Routers or WiFi Access Points, which are designed for short distances and many clients, this protocol has been optimized for maximum performance over long distances. It prevents 'collisions' of data packets and ensures low latencies and high data throughput. The crucial prerequisite for optimal function is a clear line of sight between the two Antennas. Trees, buildings, or hills can block the 5 GHz signal. However, with the integrated tools in the airOS® software and the mobile app, you can quickly find the perfect mounting location and ideal alignment, utilizing 5 GHz Components and effective Mounting Systems.
Thoughtful Down to the Detail: Installation and Management
Ubiquiti has made installation as simple as possible for their Ubiquiti products. The Antenna is assembled without tools, and the innovative ball joint mount allows for easy and precise 3-axis alignment on the mast, supported by Antenna Mounting Accessories. The absolute highlight is the separate management radio: simply connect via WiFi with your smartphone directly to the LiteBeam, launch the UISP App, and configure the entire link without having to take a laptop onto the roof, just like with a dedicated WiFi Access Point. Power Supply via the included Power over Ethernet (PoE) adapter reduces Cabling effort to a minimum – a single Ethernet Cable is sufficient for data and power, thanks to PoE Injectors / Power Supplies.
Strengths & Notes at a Glance
- Pro: Extremely good value for money for professional radio link applications, enhancing your overall Network.
- Pro: High interference immunity and range due to highly directional 23 dBi Antenna, perfect for 5 GHz Antennas.
- Pro: Ingenious management WiFi for easy configuration via smartphone app, similar to managing a WiFi Access Point.
- Pro: Very fast and flexible Mounting Systems thanks to the well-designed ball joint mount.
- Note: An absolutely clear line of sight between the devices is mandatory.
- Note: Uses the proprietary airMAX ac standard and is not compatible with standard WiFi clients (laptops, mobile phones). A separate WiFi Access Point is required at the destination to complete your Network setup, utilizing airMAX ac Components.
Specifications & Features
| Manufacturer: | Ubiquiti |
| Model: | LiteBeam 5AC Gen2 |
| Manufacturer Part Number (MPN): | LBE-5AC-GEN2 |
| EAN: | 0810354026317 |
| Product Classification: | airMAX ac CPE (Customer Premises Equipment) / WiFi Bridge Sets |
| Dimensions: | 358 x 271.95 x 272.5 mm |
| Weight (without mount): | 800 g |
| Weight (with mount): | 980 g |
| Housing Material: | UV-resistant outdoor plastic |
| Processor: | MIPS 74Kc |
| RAM: | 64 MB DDR2 |
| Network Interface: | (1) 10/100/1000 Gigabit Ethernet Port (Ethernet Switch) |
| Max. Power Consumption: | 7W |
| Power Supply Method: | Passive PoE (Pairs 4, 5+; 7, 8 Return) (PoE Injectors / Power Supplies) |
| Supported Voltage Range: | 24V ± 10% |
| LED Indicators: | Power, Ethernet |
| Antenna Gain (5 GHz): | 23 dBi (5 GHz Antennas) |
| Antenna Technology: | InnerFeed® (Radio integrated into feedhorn) |
| Max. Transmit Power (TX Power): | 25 dBm |
| Operating Frequency (5 GHz Main Radio): | 5150 - 5875 MHz (5 GHz Components) |
| Operating Frequency (2.4 GHz Management): | 2412 - 2472 MHz (2.4 GHz Components) |
| Wireless Standard: | Proprietary airMAX ac Standard (airMAX ac Components) |
| Channel Widths (PtP Mode): | 10/20/30/40/50/60/80 MHz |
| Channel Widths (PtMP Mode): | 10/20/30/40 MHz |
| Operating System: | airOS® 8 |
| Operating Modes: | Access Point (PtP), Station (PtP & PtMP) |
| Security: | WPA2 AES |
| ESD/EMP Protection: | ± 24 kV Contact / Air (Lightning Protection) |
| Operating Temperature: | -40 to 70° C |
| Operating Humidity: | 5 to 95% Non-Condensing |
| Wind Loading: | 275 N @ 200 km/h |
| Wind Survivability: | 200 km/h |
| Certifications: | CE, FCC, IC |
Scope of Delivery
| 1 x Ubiquiti LiteBeam 5AC Gen2 |
| 1 x Pole Mounting Kit (with ball joint) (Mounting Systems) |
| 1 x 24V, 0.3A Gigabit PoE Adapter (PoE Injectors / Power Supplies) |
| 1 x Power Cable |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I directly provide my house with WiFi using the LiteBeam 5AC Gen2?
No, that is not its primary purpose. The device functions as a WiFi Bridge to 'beam' an Internet connection from one location to another. At the destination, you must connect the incoming signal from the PoE Injectors / Power Supplies via an Ethernet Cable to a standard WiFi Access Point or WiFi Router to provide connectivity for your end devices like laptops and mobile phones.
Do I need one or two devices to establish a connection?
To set up a Point-to-Point (PtP) bridge between two buildings, you always need two identical LiteBeam 5AC Gen2 devices. One will be configured as an Access Point and the other as a Station. This creates a robust Network connection.
What does 'airMAX ac' mean and is it compatible with my AC WiFi Router?
'airMAX ac' is a proprietary TDMA protocol from Ubiquiti Networks, optimized for long-range connections. It is not compatible with the standard IEEE 802.11ac WiFi protocol and therefore cannot connect to your regular WiFi Router.
How is the LiteBeam 5AC Gen2 powered?
Power is supplied exclusively via the included 24V Gigabit Passive PoE Injectors / Power Supplies. A single Ethernet Cable delivers both data and power, simplifying outdoor installation and Cabling.
What realistic data rate can I expect over a long distance?
The actual throughput rate heavily depends on distance, signal quality, and interference. With optimal alignment and clear line of sight, users often achieve stable rates of 200-400 Mbps, although theoretically over 450 Mbps are possible using 5 GHz Components.
Is expert knowledge required for installation?
While physical mounting is straightforward, configuring the software (airOS) and precisely aligning the Antennas requires basic Network understanding. The integrated alignment tools in the software and the management app assist with this. This is crucial for optimal performance of your Network.
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Postal code, City: 10017 , New York
Country: Vereinigte Staaten
State: New York
Homepage: https://www.ui.com
